Lionel Messi’s emotional celebration after scoring a hat-trick in Argentina’s World Cup 2026 debut has been tied to his father’s hospitalization, according to Argentine media. Jorge Messi, the player’s father, is reportedly in serious condition in Argentina, prompting concern among family and fans. Eduardo Feinmann, a prominent Argentine journalist, revealed on Radio Mitre that the elder Messi is battling a “serious health issue.”

Messi’s Emotional Display and Family Woes

Messi, 38, was seen crying on the pitch after scoring for Argentina against Algeria,a rare display from a player known for his composure. His tears, initially interpreted as an emotional response to his historic performance, were later attributed to the family situation. “It’s something delicate,” one source said, according to reports. Messi has been described as “under enormous tension” due to the circumstances, as he balances his role as Argentina’s captain with the worry for his ailing father.

Argentina’s Growing Fanbase in Bangladesh

Meanwhile, in Bangladesh, Argentina’s World Cup journey has captured the imagination of millions. The Southeast Asian nation, home to about 177 million people, now has more Argentina supporters than Argentina itself, according to estimates. Writer and sports commentator Rajib Hasan told EL PAÍS that around 120 million Bangladeshi football fans support Argentina, with over 60%—or 72 million people,backing the team during the World Cup cycle. This would mean that more than 26 million more people support Argentina than live in Argentina.

Mohammad Shibly, a 32-year-old fan in Dhaka, said: “Since the first time I watched soccer, Argentina became my favorite team, and I support them because of Lionel Messi.” Shibly has followed the team since Messi’s Barcelona days, a sentiment echoed by many in the country. Messi, after his hat-trick against Algeria, said: “It’s a source of pride, but it’s just a statistic. It’s not going to change anything for me. I’ve won everything at club and international level, and whatever comes from now on is a bonus.”

Pochettino’s Challenge in the U.S.

On the other side of the World Cup stage, U.S. national team coach Mauricio Pochettino is managing a complex setting of expectations and political pressures. Pochettino, who previously coached in England and France, has taken over a team that faces both the challenge of winning a historic tournament and the expectations of a nation deeply invested in its success. When asked by Donald Trump if the U.S. could win, Pochettino responded confidently: “Of course, Mr. President.”

He explained that such confidence is necessary, noting: “If I were the president and the coach didn’t respond with a resounding yes, I would fire him.” Pochettino emphasized turning pressure into energy, particularly as the U.S. faces a historically difficult path in the tournament. He also addressed concerns about soccer’s rising popularity in the U.S. potentially affecting traditional sports: “I think there is room for everyone. The U.S. has almost 350 million inhabitants. And there are 80 million Latinos who have soccer in their DNA.”

With Messi continuing to make headlines on the pitch and family concerns off it, and with Pochettino steering the U.S. team through a complex political and sporting environment, the 2026 World Cup has become more than just a football event—it’s a global stage for stories of family, passion, and national pride.